PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can occur after experiencing a traumatic event such as combat, abuse, or natural disasters. Symptoms include flashbacks, detachment, and extreme tension. Treatment includes counseling, drug therapy, and relaxation therapy. Certain people are more likely to develop PTSD, and seeking help from a mental health professional is recommended.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) occurs in some individuals who experience a traumatic event that may involve a threat of harm, danger or death. Sometimes PTSD occurs when a person witnesses an accident, natural disaster, or other type of violence. Soldiers, for example, who experience combat sometimes develop PTSD.
Other instances that could trigger PTSD include living in a combat area, experiencing physical or domestic abuse or rape, or surviving life-threatening injuries, illnesses, or natural disasters. Any event that causes fear, helplessness, or dread can trigger PTSD.
The resulting stress after such an event is an anxiety disorder. Symptoms of PTSD include sleep problems, nightmares, flashbacks, panic or guilt attacks, detachment, or paranoia. Flashbacks are troubling, realistic reminders of the traumatic event. The results of PTSD can impair a person’s ability to function on a daily basis.
Some PTSD sufferers may experience extreme anxiety about a repeat of the traumatic event. Others may be unable to talk about the traumatic event or feel unable to express feelings or emotions with those unrelated to the tragedy. Another symptom is extreme tension which can cause anger or irritability. Other symptoms include having unexplained fear, being easily frightened, or having difficulty concentrating.
While the actual cause of PTSD hasn’t been determined, doctors believe that the chemicals released during the tragic event alter brain function in some way.
Because not everyone who experiences a traumatic event develops PTSD, experts have determined that the disorder is more likely to occur in certain types of people. Those who may develop PTSD may have additional mental health conditions, either personally or in their family, or have experienced severe childhood disorders. Women, heavy drinkers, those under stress, or those without a strong support group are more likely to develop PTSD.
Someone who has been experiencing PTSD symptoms for more than a month should seek help from a mental health professional or doctor. Interviews and questionnaires administered by a professional can help diagnose PTSD. Counseling and drug therapy are effective forms of treatment. Relaxation therapy is also helpful for some PTSD sufferers.
Organizations providing additional information on PTSD include the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, the National Alliance for Mental Illness, the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, the National Institute of Mental Health, and PTSD alliance.
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